Importance

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Abstract

Methods and apparatus for generating images and/or photographs from digital data files with data, e.g., audio data, stored on the photograph are described. Ink which is invisible or almost invisible to the human eye but which can be detected using an optical reader is used for printing the data on the photograph. When the ink used for printing audio data is slightly noticeable to a human, the color or colors of the photo are adjusted to mask the visual effect of the ink. In order to identify the presence and/or location of printed audio data, the audio data region on the photograph is identified using a non-destructive technique. In one embodiment, the optical density of all or a portion of the image area corresponding to the audio data region of a photograph is reduced slightly from that of the original image to identify the presence and location of the printed audio data. This approach identifies the presence and location of audio data without destroying the content of the image on which the audio data is printed. In another embodiment, audio data markers, e.g., in the form of small lines or marks, are printed on the photograph to identify the presence and/or location of printed audio data. To avoid destroying the image content of the photograph the audio data region identification marks may be printed on the edges or boarder of the photograph. The audio data may be read and played using a hand held scanner.

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First Claim